A Novel Approach for Developing Smart Cotton Fabric with Dynamic Breathability and Easy Care Features

In this study, cotton fabrics were treated with temperature-water responsive nanocomposites consisting of shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) and cellulose nanowhiskers (CNWs) for smart crease recovery/retention functions besides breathability. The smart crease recovery/retention functions were determined in air/water at different temperatures and relative humidities simulating laundry and drying processes. Smart breathability function was tested by water vapour permeability tests under different temperatures-relative humidities and air permeability tests at different fabric temperatures. Physical- mechanical properties and washing fastness properties were also investigated. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses confirm the SMPU-CNW nanocomposite presence on fabric. Test results show that the treated cotton fabrics have not only dual responsive permeability as a result of dynamic pore structure, but also dynamic crease recovery/retention with enhanced mechanical properties. It is thought that suggested method can contribute to both ecological and economic aspects of sustainability as a result of less energy and polymer consumptions besides smart comfort enhancement and mechanical functions.